Ayer Introduction

R.H. Dana Middle School: Introduction

Principal: Matthew Wunder
Enrollment: 794
Significant Subgroups: 45% eligible for free and reduced lunch; 3% English learners; 47%
Hispanic/Latino; 16% White; 15% Black/African American
Grade Configuration: 6-8
Daily Schedule: 6 periods; block schedule with 3 periods every other day
Achievement Data: 2005 API of 767; 2004 statewide rank of 8; 2005 similar schools rank of 10

Distinctive Characteristics

Academic Excellence

School provides a balanced, comprehensive, standards-based curriculum.
A block schedule provides extended learning time in all curricular areas.
Team meetings focus on increasing student achievement and on using data to monitor student progress.
An inclusive instructional model allows special needs students access to core curriculum in all academic, exploratory, and elective classes.
A cross-curricular writing program helps students acquire knowledge and skills outlined in state standards.
The science program has earned students and the school regional and national recognition.

Developmental Responsiveness

Sixth-grade students experience a gradual transition guided by core teachers.
Students enjoy an active voice in school governance issues; a leadership elective provides a way to be involved and connected to daily life on campus.
Many avenues exist where parents can become collaborative partners in student learning such as Homework Hotline, Family Symposium and Parent Strategies Training.
Many examples of links between academic disciplines exist.
Trained Peer Mediators (students) help students solve personal and peer problems.
A team of students trains and competes in the Los Angeles Marathon.

Social Equity

A culture of respect and support for all encourages all students to do their best.
The school applies analysis of multiple learning styles to its lesson delivery system.
Strong caring relationships between students and adults create positive connections and involvement.
The cultural diversity of the student population is valued and appreciated.
An integrated-collaborative resource program includes a health aide, school nurse, and counselor.
A strong inclusion program supports special education students.
Positive behavior is rewarded in many ways and on many occasions.

Organizational Support

A strong connection exists between community and school.
A well articulated district-school vision provides direction.
Strong connections are in place between the school and local businesses, community organizations, feeder schools, and destination high school districts.
Continued professional development is comprehensive, long-range and aligned with state standards.
Data is actively used in decision-making; team decision-making is solidly in place.
District supports and empowers its teachers; the staff is flexible and open to new ideas.
A recent school-wide re-emphasis on the writing process is being put into action.

California League of Middle Schools
6615 East Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 120, Long Beach, California 90803
Voice: 562/430-3136 or 800/326-1880 . . . FAX: 562/430-5607. . . E-Mail: info@clms.net